Effective January 1, 2011, the South Carolina 2011 Maximum Compensation Rate increased 2.2%.  

This means, for accidents occurring on or after January 1, 2011, the maximum weekly compensation rate shall be $704.92. This increases the maximum weekly compensation rate by $15.21 or 2.2% greater than the rate in 2010.

The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce (formerly the South Carolina Employment Security Commission) has certified the average weekly wage in South Carolina for the period July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2010 was $704.92.

The South Carolina Workers' Compensation Act provides that the maximum weekly compensation rate is 66 2/3% of an individual's average weekly wage, not to exceed the average weekly wage in the State for the preceding fiscal year. Under the increased rate, an individual earning $1,057.32 or more per week will be at the maximum compensation rate.

For additional information on the rate increase and how it may affect your business, contact Collins & Lacy Workers' Compensation Practice Group Chair Ellen Adams at eadams@colllinsandlacy.com.